Inhibitor/ɪnˈhɪbɪtər/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Broad Usage Used in various fields to describe something that impedes progress or action. Fear is often an inhibitor to personal growth. Pro Tip 2/3Not Always Negative While it blocks actions, an inhibitor can be beneficial, like in safety mechanisms. The car's inhibitor sensor prevents engine overheat. Pro Tip 3/3Metaphorical Use Can be used metaphorically to talk about non-physical barriers. Lack of education is a strong inhibitor of social mobility.